Millimeter-Wave Tank Level Sensing Without Container Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional liquid level sensing devices require an opening in the container, making them susceptible to moisture contamination.
Innovation Solution
A liquid level sensing device using a millimeter-wave lens and radar sensor mounted on a container without an opening, determining fill levels based on radar sensor data without direct fluid connection, utilizing processors and machine learning models for accurate fill level detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an opening is formed in the container for liquid level sensing, then the sensing device can accurately determine the level in the container, but the sensing device becomes susceptible to moisture contamination by contents inside the container
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure (flange mounting system with sealing surfaces) between the sensing device and the container that allows the radar sensor to detect liquid levels through the container wall without requiring an opening. The intermediary mounting mechanism enables non-contact measurement while maintaining container integrity and preventing moisture ingress.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based level sensing (which requires openings) with electromagnetic radar sensing that can penetrate container walls. This substitution eliminates the need for physical openings while maintaining accurate level detection capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If no opening is formed in the container, then moisture contamination is prevented, but traditional sensing devices cannot accurately determine the liquid level
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs radar sensing technology that uses electromagnetic waves to detect liquid levels through the container wall material. This non-contact electromagnetic measurement method achieves accurate level detection without requiring mechanical openings in the container.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct physical contact (requiring openings) to electromagnetic wave penetration (no openings needed). By utilizing the penetrating capability of millimeter-wave radar through non-conductive container materials, accurate measurement is achieved while maintaining container integrity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate fill level detection without container openings, preventing moisture contamination and enhancing reliability.
Implementation Method 1
at least one radar sensor mounted in the enclosure, wherein the at least one millimeter-wave lens is positioned between the holding tank and the at least one radar sensor
Implementation Method 2
an enclosure having a first side that includes at least one millimeter-wave lens, wherein the first side that includes the at least one millimeter-wave lens is mounted on the holding tank
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid level sensing device can include a holding tank mounted on a motor vehicle, wherein the holding tank is constructed to hold solid waste, liquid waste, water, or any combination thereof; an enclosure having a side that includes at least one millimeter-wave lens, wherein the side that includes the at least one millimeter-wave lens is mounted on the holding tank; at least one radar sensor mounted in the enclosure, wherein the at least one millimeter-wave lens is positioned between the holding tank and the at least one radar sensor; memory; one or more processors operably coupled to the memory and the at least one radar sensor, wherein the one or more processors are configured at least to: receive first radar sensor data from the at least one radar sensor; and determine a fill level of the holding tank based at least on the first radar sensor data.